Folding Bikes - Wireless Computer for Folder

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supcom
01-22-05, 03:54 PM
Any suggestions for a wireless computer to mount on a folding bike? I've ordered a Dahon Speed 8 and would like to put on a computer when it arrives. Has anyone had problems with the distance between the bars and the transmitter causeing loss of signal?


formulaben
01-22-05, 05:52 PM
I put one of these (http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=17167&subcategory_ID=4110) on my Dahon and it works great. You can't beat it for $20! Just make sure you get the correct wheel size (circumference?) as it's not in the manual because the wheel size is slightly odd. And when you do, I suggest you write it somewhere on the 'puter because when you do a reset, the computer goes back to the default, not the last entered wheel size.

wpflem
01-22-05, 09:45 PM
Why not go with a GPS? It's costs more, but Garmin has a nice handle mount and it is so superior to a wireless computer. They also have out some new small units for bikes.

wpf
www.sfbikes.com


supcom
01-23-05, 09:10 AM
I have a GPS and a handlebar mount for it, but it's a bit way overkill for ordinary commuting and general use just to track speed and distance. I do like to use GPS now and then when I ride in unfamiliar areas so I don't miss a turn. Rural areas can be bad about not marking roads.

Even with GPS, I still use a cycling computer. My GPS does not maintain separate trip and regular odometers.

ruchai
01-26-05, 01:35 AM
I use Garmin eTrex Venture on my several bikes for a few years now . Very useful, and I am useing the Venture only and when I want to know the distance and the speed. When I go out for fun or on the same route day after day for exercises I do not use it. I also use the Venture in my car and when hiking. They have the new wrist watch size models designed for fitting on bike handlebar, come also with heart monitor. www.garmin.com

meb
01-26-05, 04:05 AM
Any suggestions for a wireless computer to mount on a folding bike? I've ordered a Dahon Speed 8 and would like to put on a computer when it arrives. Has anyone had problems with the distance between the bars and the transmitter causeing loss of signal?

Most wireless computers have a 60-70cm range, generally suitable for a folder unless it might be a recumbent.

supcom
01-26-05, 07:15 AM
Well, I got my new Speed 8 last night and tried using a three year old Specialized Elite Wireless computer on it. The distance from bars to the closest fork mount (right below the brake arms) was about 5 cm too far. I could not get it to work. I even had brand new batteries in the transmitter and receiver and my handlebar post is not extended very far.

I have ordered a db4lw as recommeded. Hopefully it will have a little further range.

meb
01-27-05, 01:35 AM
Well, I got my new Speed 8 last night and tried using a three year old Specialized Elite Wireless computer on it. The distance from bars to the closest fork mount (right below the brake arms) was about 5 cm too far. I could not get it to work. I even had brand new batteries in the transmitter and receiver and my handlebar post is not extended very far.

I have ordered a db4lw as recommeded. Hopefully it will have a little further range.

The range is FCC dictated 1) to avoid interference with other communications, and 2) to avoid interference with other riders of wireless computers when riding in a pack.